Rapeseed is one of the most popular oilseeds on the planet, and its applications are simply endless.
We have prepared some interesting facts about this crop:
1. Rapeseed has been known in agriculture since the 4th millennium BC.
2. The crop was obtained by crossing rape with garden cabbage.
3. There are 2 forms of rapeseed: spring rapeseed, which is grown in Canada, Australia, and China, and winter rapeseed, which is predominant in Europe.
4. Rapeseed is valuable because it improves soil structure and its phytosanitary condition, and reduces weed infestation. This increases the yield of subsequent crops, especially cereals.
5. Rapeseed oil is used to produce biodiesel, an environmentally friendly fuel.
6. Rapeseed oil is one of the most popular oils on the European table, as it has a unique fatty acid content and high nutritional value.
7. In addition to the food industry, rapeseed oil is used in the pharmaceutical, soap and paint industries, for the manufacture of plastics, lubricants and candles.
8. Rapeseed meal is a valuable feed for cattle.
9. Rapeseed honey is one of the rarest, most nutritious and healthy. One hectare of rapeseed produces about 50 kg and sometimes up to 100 kg of honey.